2. Decide What Is Important To You

Make a list of the outdoor productsand accessories you'd like to include in your yard.

Ask yourself, "what is my backyard missing?" What do you enjoy doing in your home that would be more enjoyable outside? A couple of examples are cooking, reading, socializing, and exercising.

Outdoor Kitchen & Bar

Comfortable Furniture

Lighting & Candles

Entertainment (Music & TV)

Heaters, Fireplaces or Fire Pits

Fountains & Statuary

Landscaping

Water fountain wall, deep seating furniture and fireplace

3. Use Hardscaping

Hardscaping can be anything from a brick pathway through your garden to a wood deck or concrete stained patio. Doing this can add structure and privacy to your outdoor space no matter what size backyard you have to work with.

Hardscaping and it's trade are considered to be works of art. Be sure to choose a experienced, highly-recommended hardscaper because their work will act an outline or skeleton for your outdoor space.

Here are a couple of beautiful hardscaping examples!

Stone pathways and gazebos are very popular, adding a nice touch to any backyard!

A concrete path with a strip of bricks can add structure to your outdoor spaces.

4. Create Your Own Rules

This is your space, it can be anything you want it to be. You should forget conventional layouts or designs and start creating your own rules.

Who says your backyard can not be as comfortable as your living room? Don't be afraid of putting comfortable, deep seating furniture outside.

Some people believe the common misconception that this kind of furniture can quickly deteriorate outside. However, when you purchase quality outdoor furniture it is not difficult to find both comfort and durability.